Safeguarding the future of autonomous driving
TIER IV PEOPLE shines a light on the people and teams whose unique experiences, backgrounds, and stories bring our mission to life. In this installment, members of the Safety Case Design team gathered to discuss the company’s efforts to safeguard autonomous driving technology, ensuring it is ready for widespread use on public roads.
A graduate of Kobe University's Faculty of Engineering, Tomohiko currently leads the development of safety and quality frameworks at TIER IV. His previous experience includes roles in brake system design and functional safety development at an automaker. His hobbies include camping and skiing.
A graduate of Suzuka KOSEN's Department of Electronic and Information Engineering, Yasunobu builds frameworks and rules to ensure safety and quality. With prior experience in powertrain control system design at an automaker, he has a background in detailed design for functional safety. In his free time, he enjoys reading and model building.
A graduate of Hiroshima City University's Department of Information and Mechanical Systems Engineering, Hiroshi joined the Safety Case Design team this April. In previous roles at an automaker and Tier 1 manufacturer, he was involved in EV/HEV control system design, cybersecurity consulting and establishing quality assurance processes. His interests include photography and visiting shrines and temples.
A graduate of Nagano KOSEN's Department of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tomoyuki is a member of the architecture team, where he leads the development of frameworks to ensure system reliability. In previous roles, he was involved in software and system development at a brake supplier and served as a technical consultant, providing support for process improvement and functional safety. He enjoys mountain climbing in his spare time.
— Can you briefly share details about your background and what attracted you to TIER IV?
Tomohiko: In my previous role at a Japanese automaker, I was involved in designing brake systems, and later on, I worked on functional safety. Initially, the company didn’t have a mechanism or framework for things like functional safety. I was involved in establishing such frameworks across the entire organization from scratch.
During that time, I experienced some of the constraints common to large corporations. As a result, I wanted to challenge myself in a more liberated environment without such restrictions and contribute to making autonomous driving technology safe and reliable for public use. That's why I joined TIER IV.
Yasunobu: I also come from an automotive background. I was involved in the development of powertrain control computers and worked on functional safety. In my student days, I participated in robot contests. After I entered the workforce, I got to know lots of people who had also participated in robot contests. Many of them ended up joining TIER IV, which piqued my interest in the company. I was also intrigued by the company’s open-source approach to autonomous driving.
Hiroshi: I've changed companies a few times. I worked with Tomohiko at an automotive company, where I was responsible for designing systems for electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles. Later on, I moved to a consulting firm specializing in functional safety and cybersecurity. After that, I worked in quality assurance at a Tier 1 supplier.
The reason I joined TIER IV is partly because of the connection with Tomohiko. I was also attracted to the opportunity of working on autonomous driving projects that no one has tackled before – and the liberated environment. It's only been a month since I joined, but I've noticed that there are many talented individuals here, and everyone seems highly motivated. There's an impression that many people here are determined to lead the company forward.
Tomoyuki: My first job was as a software engineer developing electronic control brake systems. It was during this role that I learned about the ISO 26262 functional safety standard and became involved in establishing processes for the company.
I spent 22 years there. Towards the end of my tenure, I attended a functional safety conference where I noticed a significant shift towards functional safety in autonomous driving. This made me realize that my skills might be becoming outdated. I wanted to pursue safety in autonomous driving technology, which motivated me to seek a career change.
At my second job in a consulting firm, I had the opportunity to explore various technologies from other companies and leverage my expertise. However, I still had a desire for hands-on work, which ultimately led me to join TIER IV.
— What are the responsibilities and tasks of the Safety Case Design team?
Tomohiko: The team's objective is to ensure the safety, security, and reliability of autonomous driving vehicles and services. We're not only creating processes and guidelines, we’re also providing support to those who are using the guidelines for the first time.
Hiroshi: I think the company is set to expand even further. As more people get involved, ensuring safety becomes crucial. For the products to be successful in the global market, it's essential to establish mechanisms that guarantee safety as a basic requirement.
— Can you share details about the challenges the team is tackling?
Tomohiko: At automakers and Tier 1 suppliers, safety and quality form the foundation of product development. Although TIER IV includes people from automotive backgrounds, we also have staff specializing in software. Those from automotive backgrounds have a strong awareness that accidents must be avoided at all costs. On the other hand, app engineers tend to adopt a more iterative approach to development, focusing on addressing user dissatisfaction or issues as they arise. Given TIER IV's current business landscape, our mission is to integrate these two perspectives and to transform awareness regarding safety and quality.
Tomoyuki: If an accident were to occur, it would inevitably lead to discussions about whether autonomous driving was implemented prematurely. Beyond safety risks, there's also reputational risk. To avoid such risks, it's crucial to have solid foundations in place.
Tomohiko: Autonomous driving is a whole new realm of tech development, and conveying its safety isn't simple. There are areas where we can address concerns, but there are also areas that require collaboration with stakeholders.
Tomoyuki: We follow a consensus-building approach, especially with projects like our autonomous buses. We start by explaining to local residents the potential risks involved and the measures we're taking to address them. It’s important for people to understand the trade-offs between the benefits and conveniences of autonomous driving and the risks. Cooperation from local communities is crucial. For instance, in Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture, the municipality has launched a digital transformation strategy. Part of this strategy is focused on the rollout of autonomous vehicles.
Yasunobu: My main focus lies in areas related to regulations and standards, as well as internal process development. I work on addressing how to mitigate abnormal situations or dangerous scenarios that may arise with autonomous vehicles. Given the extensive regulations concerning automobiles, not everyone on the team is an expert in all aspects, so we collaborate with legal professionals to ensure we receive updated information. TIER IV's autonomous driving business is expanding quickly, so the challenge is to ensure our internal compliance keeps up with regulations and standards.
Business overview
— How is the work of an architect connected to the Safety Case Design team?
Tomoyuki: I'm leading the establishment of frameworks that enhance the safety and reliability of autonomous driving systems using Pilot.Auto and Autoware. It's not just about ensuring safety and security for TIER IV. We also need to enable our partners to achieve the same level of excellence.
First and foremost, we are collaborating as a team to develop tools and processes that enable safe design and ensure safety, with TIER IV serving as the initial user. Currently, we have three members from partner companies seconded to this team. They have expressed an interest in becoming integrators, so I hope that by accumulating knowledge at TIER IV, they can return to their own companies and take on core safety roles. We’re working on building such partnerships.
— How would you describe the work atmosphere at TIER IV?
Hiroshi: The atmosphere is great. And that's not just in our team, but across the board.
Yasunobu: Thinking about the company as a whole, people are very hands-on and assertive. Within our team, the secondees from partner companies have also been really helpful, assuming an active role and making significant contributions.
— What kind of candidates are you looking for?
Tomohiko: Our team culture focuses on four key points. Firstly, initiative and independent thinking. We want team members to challenge themselves by setting their own goals and achieving them. Secondly, the ability to discern what’s at the heart of the matter. We strive to always be aware of the core of any issue and use this awareness to solve problems. Thirdly, courage to embrace change. We want to take the first step away from old traditions and customs, without fear of change. And fourthly, communication skills to build trusting relationships. We take into account others' perspectives and have open and honest conversations.
I hope everyone can embody these four qualities. With them, I believe anyone can thrive not only in our team but also in any work environment. Conversely, individuals who can't take initiative, freeze up, or speak without a clear understanding of what’s at stake won't fit well in our team.
We don't place much importance on academic background, but prior experience in safety and quality is paramount. Ideally, people who have a comprehensive understanding of the whole vehicle system would be perfect. I've said a lot of serious things today, but essentially we want cheerful and energetic people to join us!
Tomoyuki: I also prefer working with people who can take initiative rather than just following instructions passively. It's important to have a sense of ownership and awareness of the challenges you take on. People who feel restricted at large corporations and unable to pursue what they want, or those frustrated by the slow pace of change, would find TIER IV a great fit. The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, so being able to keep up with the changes is crucial.
Tomohiko: I’m sure major automakers are also aware of these challenges, but they often face constraints typical of large corporations and lack agility. That's why TIER IV might have an edge in catching up and overtaking them.
Hiroshi: From that perspective, I think TIER IV is an agile company, perfect for those who thrive on embracing new challenges with a sense of speed and urgency.
— Any final words for potential candidates?
Hiroshi: This is a great company for people who have dreams. We are in the midst of a transitional period, where technology is advancing and reshaping businesses and society along the way. For people who have a clear idea of how to ride this wave, TIER IV would be a great fit.
Yasunobu: If a candidate has a strong background in safety and quality, you’ve got a chance, even if you don’t hail from the automotive industry.
Tomohiko: While our team consists mainly of people from automotive backgrounds, we also welcome those with experience in safety from aviation, military, railway, and other industries, as well as individuals who embody the four cultural values mentioned earlier. As a relatively young company, there are many challenges ahead. We’re looking for people who can approach them with a positive attitude and enthusiasm. Anyone who fits that description should definitely consider applying.
Tomoyuki: Discussions about safety and quality tend to remain confined within a company's walls. However, at TIER IV, it's essential to involve others in the conversation to establish autonomous driving in society. So if you think you can make a contribution here, join us and let's accomplish this goal together!
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TIER IV is always on the lookout for passionate individuals to join our journey. If you share our vision of making autonomous driving accessible to all, get in touch.
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